Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of control when the airplane unexpectedly encountered a downdraft shortly after takeoff.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that, during takeoff and at about 150 feet above ground level, the airplane experienced a downdraft and the airplane started to descend. He added that there were no problems with the engine and he had full power, but that the airplane could not climb. The airplane then descended and impacted terrain and skidded along the ground before coming to rest in an inverted position. Additionally, he stated that the wind was from the south, at about 5 mph at the time of the accident. The pilot reported no preaccident anomalies with the airplane.
Source record
Factual narrative
According to the pilot, during take-off when he got about 150-feet in the air, the airplane experienced a downdraft and the airplane started to descend. He added that there were no problems with the engine, and he had full power, but the airplane could not climb. The airplane then descended and impacted terrain; skidded along the ground before coming to rest in the inverted position. Additionally, he stated that the wind was from the south, at about 5 mph at the time of the accident. The pilot did not report any anomalies with the airplane, prior to the accident.